William Inge (judge) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir William Inge
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Arms of William Inge (d.1322); Vert, a chevron or.
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| 15th Lord Chief Justice of England | |
| In office 1316–1317 |
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| Monarch | Edward II |
| Prime Minister | Thomas, Earl of Lancaster (as Lord High Steward) |
| Chancellor | John Sandale |
| Preceded by | Roger Brabazon |
| Succeeded by | Henry le Scrope |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1260 Dunstable, Bedfordshire |
| Died | May 1322 (aged 61–62) |
| Nationality | English |
| Children | Joan la Zouche |
Sir William Inge (born around 1260 – died May 1322) was an important English lawyer and judge. He served as the top judge, known as the Chief Justice of the King's Bench, for a few months between 1316 and 1317. He was born near Dunstable, Bedfordshire. His father, Thomas Inge, was a small landowner and worked for the government.
Early Career as a Lawyer
William Inge started his legal career as a lawyer at the common bench court. This was between 1281 and 1285. Later, he became a special lawyer for the king from 1287 to 1293. He also worked as a judge for special court sessions called "eyre" and "assize" courts. By 1293, he was a regular assize judge. He was made a knight by the year 1300.
Working with the Kings
In the early 1300s, Sir William Inge traveled with King Edward I. He joined the king several times during his military trips to Scotland.
After 1307, Inge stayed close to the new king, Edward II. He worked as a special representative for the king in France from 1310 to 1311. In 1313, he became a judge of the common bench. He held this job until 1316. That year, he was chosen to be the Chief Justice of the King's Bench after the previous judge, Roger Brabazon, passed away.
However, there were some concerns about how Inge handled certain land deals. He was accused of not following the rules when he bought a large property called Woodmansterne in Surrey. Even though this issue was settled after he left his top judge role, it likely played a part in him leaving the position. After this, he did not take part in public life anymore.
Family Life and Passing
Sir William Inge was married two times. He had one daughter from his first marriage, named Joan. Joan married Eon la Zouche. After Eon passed away, she married Robert Moton of Peckleton. William Inge died shortly before May 10, 1322.
